Fire Chief Jeremy Lami Announces Retirement

After three years as Fire Chief and a 21-year career with the Mobile Fire Rescue Department, Chief Jeremy Lami has announced he will retire in November.

As a second-generation firefighter, Chief Lami grew up within the MFRD family, in and out of fire stations since a young age. “From the age of 4, these fire stations have been my second home,” Lami said.

Chief Lami joined the fire department in 2002, and quickly rose through the ranks, learning valuable lessons in the field as he moved up. “I’ve honestly loved every single position I’ve had the honor to serve in throughout my career,” Lami said.

As a leader, Chief Lami has helped move the department forward through unparalleled achievements. Some of these include implementing a professional development program, releasing the first five-year strategic plan, helping the department bump up its Insurance Services Office rating from ISO-3 to an ISO-1 rating, CAAS accreditation for MFRD’s ambulance service and CFAI accreditation for the entire department. At the time of when the last of those goals was achieved, Mobile became the ninth fire department in the U.S. to currently hold all three of these standards.

“Over the years, I have been privileged to witness firsthand the unwavering dedication, bravery, and commitment of our Firefighters and support staff,” he said. Throughout his career, he showed tremendous initiative and leadership, with a deep commitment to the department and its employees.  “Our ranks are filled with some of the finest individuals I have ever had the honor to serve alongside. I’m incredibly thankful for the experiences and relationships along my journey.

During his tenure as Fire Chief, Chief Lami provided leadership, direction, vision, and hope for continued growth and a positive future of the Mobile Fire-Rescue Department, growing the ranks by adding 47 firefighters. “I'd like to extend my deepest appreciation for the positive impact each one of you brings to our community and department daily,” Chief Lami wrote in a message to all MFRD personnel. “I recognize that our profession has its moments of chaos, but it also offers boundless opportunities for personal growth, fulfillment, and the chance to make a difference.”

Chief Lami will officially retire from the City of Mobile November 4, leaving behind a legacy of dedication and service to the community and to the department. Join us in wishing Chief Lami all the best in his next endeavor.